Renato Sanches: Mourinho Gives ‘Cheeky’ Apology After Subbing Roma Star 18 Minutes After Coming On

• Jose Mourinho has apologised to AS Roma star Renato Sanches following his side's defeat at Bologna
• Mourinho introduced Sanches at halftime, only to take him off again 18 minutes later
• The Portugal international has struggled all season with fitness issues

AS Roma manager Jose Mourinho issued a heartfelt apology to midfielder Renato Sanches for substituting him just 18 minutes into their Serie A clash against Bologna.

Suffering from persistent injuries during his tenure at Roma, Sanches was brought into the game by Mourinho during their 2-0 loss at the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara on Sunday, December 17.

Initially subbed in for Leonardo Spinazzola at halftime, Sanches struggled to impact the match, prompting Mourinho to make the tough call and replace him abruptly after only 18 minutes on the field, Football Italia reports.

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Mourinho subs Sanches off after 18 mins

Known for his bold decisions, the 60-year-old tactician executed a double substitution in the 63rd minute, featuring Edoardo Bove instead of Sanches.

This move not only surprised football enthusiasts following the match but also left the player visibly bewildered by the actions of the former Chelsea, Manchester United, and Tottenham manager.

Mourinho apologises to Sanches after brutal sub

After the game, as Roma suffered a defeat that cost them crucial points and a chance at the top four spots, Mourinho expressed regret for the abrupt substitution, offering his apologies for the harsh decision.

“I wanna apologise to Renato Sanches. Subbing him off after 18 minutes is tough for the player but same for the manager,” Jose said as quoted by Fabrizio Romano.

He added: “I did this 3-4 times during my career. I’m sorry with Renato”.

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Mourinho pained after Tottenham sack

In an earlier publication concerning Jose Mourinho, Sports Brief detailed the dissatisfaction expressed by the Portuguese coach regarding his departure from Tottenham Hotspur.

The Special One took charge after the dismissal of Mauricio Pochettino, who led the team for five years without securing any trophies.

Mourinho suggested that Spurs would not be the only club without silverware under his management, but the North London club defied his assertion by dismissing him just six days before the 2021 Carabao Cup final.